The Motor City

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YEqMZsvNrZU&feature=related

I realize that it has been a few weeks since the Super Bowl, but while I was working out today at the Rec Center the Chrysler Eminem commercial came on. Maybe it is because I was alone, and not at a party, but I was finally able to really think about this commercial and its hidden meaning. In my opinion, this hidden meaning comes from a direct connection to Eminem. I mean, Eminem is not a face that you see very often in TV commercials. So, why did Chrysler pick him for their ad?

This past year, like Detroit and the nations numerous car manufacturers, Eminem made a dramatic and successful comeback. Years ago he was on top. But, like so many do, eventually faded out and had to come up with bigger and better material to spark the interest of his many fans. Detroit, home of Ford and Chrysler, was a booming industrial town until factories began to shut down. Of course, the car companies never stopped making cars, but its in the recent years that competitve ads between car companies, fighting over who is better, that have sparked our interest as consumers.

Overall, I think this Chrysler commercial is at the top. You can even credit this notoriety to what Eminem says at the very end of the commercial. "This is the motor city and this is what we do." Eminem is a wrapper and, not matter whether people like him or not, his music is what he does.

Well whatever it is that they both do, it's working!! I mean, Eminem just won the Grammy for Rap Album of the year!

Athletes Are Breaking "Free"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sGlqQPrqZCc

It has been a long, cold winter and those of us who subject ourselves to the joys and pains of road racing are chomping at the bit to break out of the gym, off the treadmill and back on the pavement. The newest ad campaign for the Nike minimalist shoe, also know as "Nike Free", appeals to those bogged down treadmill warrior who are counting down the days for the ice to melt. Not only does the shoe design (bright appealing colors) suggest that spring is in sight, the athletes in the ad all seem to be liberated from the grind at the gym. The end of the ad even includes a large crowd of smiling, happy people participating in a road race.

Now, I try not to be such a "sucker" for advertisements but something about the promise of a light, free work out experience, not bogged down by the weight of winter or my heavy running shoes, made me desire this shoe. I had to have it! I even went to 2 stores to try them on. It wasn't until I was wearing a pair, and realizing that they probably aren't the best for me (I'm getting over a broken foot) did I laugh at myself and realize how powerful that campaign truly was.

Proud Papa

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ZdALTZ6aA8

McDonald’s commercials lately have not been very appealing to me as a consumer. Most of them just don’t make any sense. However, this new ad, which aired before the Super Bowl, was different. I had both positive and negative reactions. My first reaction was to acknowledge the creativity and cleverness behind the concept. Like any family in the United States, the proud father wants to reward his son for his hard work and what better way than providing him with an all-american treat i.e. the McDonald French fry. However, unlike us humans who actually go to a McDonalds and pay for our food, the bears decide to get it the only way they know possible, scaring campers, hikers, etc.

Secondly, the commercial made me think back and recognize all the “hallmark” moments they’ve began to display through their advertisements. Specifically, I am referring to the McDonalds commercial where the teenager passes his drivers test and decides to take his family to McDonalds. McDonalds brings families together. It gives families something to bond over. In the bear commercial, the father is passing on knowledge to his son about how to get what you want. In the driver’s license episode, the father is teaching his son the importance of good driving and responsibility. In both, hard work is rewarded!

Finally, the only negative thing about this bear ad was its connection to obesity. Now you’re probably wondering, where is she going with this thought? Well, here is the answer:

Why does fast food have to be a reward? This quote from “Ad Week” explains it all: “Mmm, reward your kids with sub-decent, low flavor food that will make them fat and teaches them nothing. Go fishing with your kids instead. It's what bears would do.”

In this regard, I have to say to all the “proud papas” out there….take your kids to the batting cages, or any other physical activity when you’re proud of them. Don’t take them for fast food. If you're proud of them for getting good grades, secure them a healthy future, not an unhealthy one! Give them a chance to succeed.

What Brand Am I?

What Brand am I?

The better question to ask me is what one piece of clothing do I always wear and have a weakness for. The answer is easy, Jeans! Therefore, it was easy to compare myself to Gap Jeans. In my opinion, Gap’s hottest seller is the company’s “basic” look, which consists of their signature blue jeans and white cotton t-shirts.

First connection right there, “basic.” I am what you call a “basic” college kid, or at least I like to this so. Blue jeans and a white Hanes v-neck t-shirt are staples in my wardrobe and represent my “take one day at a time” perspective in life. No worries but the present. Additionally, Gap jeans are also very affordable compared to most designer jeans. This is another quality that relates closely to being a college student. Sensible style I like to call it.

Furthermore, Gap jeans are classic, as am I. When I hear the word “classic” I think of history, something that has stood the test of time, a product that is dependable. As the middle of five kids, I am what I like to call a peacemaker. I am always in the middle of small disputes between my siblings. Being in such a position makes me the dependable sister my siblings know they can come to if they need advice, guidance, or just a set of ears to listen (ask John). Being dependable is also a quality that defines who I am as a friend. Both my friends and my family come first in my life.

Finally, Gap jeans and I are both cute but not flashy. Gap jeans make me feel good, cozy, and comfortable, but I can take them out on a Friday night and paint the town! They’re understated and neutral but at the same time capable of making a statement. For example, one of my favorite things to do after a long day, week, or weekend is have a low key night, something that I have lovingly come to call “Katie nights.” Katie nights consist of comfortable clothes, some good food and of course a good movie. I am an individual who enjoys her own company. I stand alone, Like Gap jeans. Each pair is individual but has certain understated qualities that make them unique. I am a 22-year-old college senior who likes staying in on a Friday night every now and then. Gap jeans are regular blue jeans, but with the right owner, define themselves entirely.

However, though my Katie nights are great, I like to go out with my friends and have a good time. This is my last semester before the real world hits. I can wear my Gap Jeans casually or dress them up and make them shine; again, a quality that defines me as an individual. I am not a party girl, but I am also not a hermit. Like Gap Jeans, I have many facets.